The Chamber Celebrates Business Excellence at the 157th Annual Dinner

The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce proudly celebrated the region’s business community at its 157th Annual Dinner, presented by PNC Bank, at the Scranton Cultural Center. The evening recognized the recipients of the 2026 Scranton Awards for Growth and Excellence (SAGE), ATHENA Leadership, and Milestone Awards, honoring outstanding achievement, leadership, and community impact across northeastern Pennsylvania

“The Annual Dinner is a time-honored tradition for The Chamber and our region,” said Bob Durkin, president of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce. “This year’s award recipients truly reflect the strength, innovation, and community spirit that define northeastern Pennsylvania. We are proud to recognize these businesses and leaders whose work continues to move our region forward.”

The 2026 SAGE Business of the Year, sponsored by Fidelity Bank, was presented to Basalyga Hospitality. A leader in food, beverage, and entertainment, Basalyga Hospitality continues to create dynamic dining, nightlife, and hospitality experiences throughout northeastern Pennsylvania. Its diverse portfolio of eight properties reflects a commitment to revitalization, innovation, and exceptional service.

The 2026 SAGE Small Business of the Year, sponsored by The Honesdale National Bank, was awarded to Everything Natural. Since its founding in 1985, the business has grown into a community-centered health and wellness destination, offering nutritious meals, fitness programming, and educational opportunities while maintaining a strong commitment to community support.

The 2026 SAGE Community Involvement Excellence, sponsored by Pennsylvania American Water, was presented to CHOP Out Hunger. Through partnerships with schools, businesses, and community organizations, CHOP works to eliminate childhood hunger, currently serving approximately 45,000 children across Pennsylvania.

The 2026 SAGE People’s Choice, sponsored by Peoples Security Bank & Trust, was presented to CHOP Out Hunger. All SAGE and Milestone recipients were eligible to win the SAGE People’s Choice. Annual Dinner attendees participated in real-time voting to select the winner. 

The 2026 ATHENA Leadership Award, sponsored by Michael A. Barbetti, CPA, LLC, was presented to Laureen “Laurie” Cadden. For more than 35 years, Cadden has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to civic engagement, the arts, and the advancement of women through financial education and leadership development.

Milestone Awards

The Chamber also recognized businesses and nonprofit organizations celebrating milestone anniversaries in five-year increments. These honorees represent the strength, longevity, and continued growth of the region’s economic and nonprofit sectors. Milestone recipients include:

  • A. Pickett Construction
  • Automated Lifestyles
  • Ballet Theatre of Scranton
  • Blu Elefante Events
  • Community Bank
  • Crystal Window & Door Systems PA
  • Damage Control, Inc.
  • EHEALTH WELLNESS & FITNESS STUDIO, LLC
  • Golden Technologies
  • Groove Brewing
  • Home Health Care Professionals & Hospice – HHCP
  • La Festa Italiana
  • Mericle Commercial Real Estate Services
  • NeighborWorks Northeastern Pennsylvania
  • Nibbles and Bits
  • Northeast Regional Cancer Institute
  • PA Advocates Inc
  • Pocono Downs at Mohegan Pennsylvania
  • Pulman Interiors
  • Quest Studio
  • Scranton Jazz Festival
  • Serving Seniors Inc.
  • The Dime Bank
  • The Honesdale National Bank
  • The Wright Centers for Community Health and Graduate Medical Education
  • TRAVELWORLD
  • United Sports Academy
  • United Way of Lackawanna, Wayne & Pike
  • Wayne Bank
  • WRC, Inc. (formerly Women’s Resource Center)
  • WVIA

Keynote Speakers Announced for EMPOWER, The Leadership Experience

The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the keynote speakers for this year’s EMPOWER, The Leadership Experience, presented by Geisinger. The annual conference is a full-day event dedicated to elevating leadership, strengthening organizations, and driving meaningful impact across the region.

Opening the conference as the Breakfast Keynote Speaker, sponsored by Peoples Security Bank & Trust, is Dr. Katie P. Desiderio, assistant vice president and professor at Moravian University and founder of Proximal Development.

Dr. Desiderio is an organizational learning and leadership scholar, executive coach, and national best-selling author of The Beekeeper and The Stargazer. With more than two decades of experience in leadership development and change management, she equips leaders with practical strategies to unlock measurable and sustainable growth at every level of an organization.

Serving as the Lunch Keynote Speaker, sponsored by PNC Bank, is Jodi Kantor, Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative journalist with The New York Times and best-selling author. Kantor’s reporting has uncovered critical issues surrounding power, law, gender, technology, and culture, work that has led to meaningful change across industries and institutions. She and her colleagues were awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Public Service for their groundbreaking investigation into decades of alleged abuse by Harvey Weinstein, reporting that sparked a global reckoning and reshaped standards worldwide. In April 2026, Kantor will release her newest book, How to Start: Discovering Your Life’s Work, offering inspired wisdom and practical strategies to help individuals at every stage of their careers advance and reimagine their professional paths.

Beyond its keynote presentations, EMPOWER will feature an impressive lineup of regional breakout and panel speakers representing diverse industries and leadership journeys. Attendees can expect a dynamic agenda designed to foster collaboration, inspire innovation, and provide actionable insights for today’s evolving workplace.

EMPOWER continues to serve as a cornerstone leadership event for the greater Scranton region, bringing together executives, entrepreneurs, emerging leaders, and community stakeholders for a day of connection and growth. To view the full speaker roster, explore the conference agenda, and register, visit the conference website.

Peoples Security Bank & Trust Contributes More Than $1.5 Million to Local Educational Organizations Through the PA EITC Program

Through the Pennsylvania Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) Program, Peoples Security Bank & Trust (PSBT) contributed $1,572,581.46 in 2025 to support educational organizations across its service footprint. The EITC Program allows businesses to support education by directing a portion of their state tax obligations to a qualified Scholarship Organization, Educational Improvement Organization, and/or a Pre-Kindergarten Scholarship Organization.

PSBT’s EITC contributions helped fund scholarship programs, classroom materials, educational supplies, school grants, and specialized academic initiatives designed to expand access to quality education. In total, 110 organizations benefitted from these funds, including private schools, scholarship organizations, pre-kindergarten programs, school districts, colleges and universities, and other nonprofit partners serving students and families throughout the Bank’s Pennsylvania footprint.

Since 2015, PSBT has contributed more than $8.6 million through the EITC program. This sustained investment reflects the Bank’s long-standing commitment to strengthening the communities it serves by helping create opportunities for students to learn, grow, and succeed.

“It is important to us to invest in education because strong schools help build strong communities,” said Jeffrey Drobins, Executive Vice President and Chief Lending Officer. “The EITC Program allows us to make meaningful investments that support students today while helping to strengthen our communities for the future.”

The EITC Program plays a critical role in expanding educational opportunities across Pennsylvania by encouraging private-sector support for innovative and impactful programs. PSBT remains committed to participating in initiatives that promote access to education and long-term community development.

Attached photo: Representatives from Peoples Security Bank & Trust (PSBT) and Pennsylvania private schools, scholarship organizations, pre-kindergarten programs, school districts, colleges, and universities recently gathered at PSBT’s Corporate Center in Moosic, PA., to celebrate the Bank’s 2025 contributions of more than $1.5 Million through the Pennsylvania Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) Program.

Peoples Security Donates $10,000, Supporting Lancaster-Area Nonprofits

Following the grand opening of its new Manheim Township branch at The Shoppes at Landis Valley, Peoples Security Bank & Trust Company (“PSBT”) announced $5,000 donations to two organizations making a powerful impact in the Lancaster community — Bench Mark Program and Power Packs Project.

The contributions celebrate PSBT’s official entry into Lancaster County and reflect the Bank’s ongoing commitment to strengthening the communities where its employees and customers live and work.

“Supporting organizations that help families and young people thrive is central to who we are,” said Kevin Boland, SVP, Market Executive at Peoples Security Bank & Trust. “Bench Mark and Power Packs Project are doing life-changing work—helping local youth develop leadership skills and ensuring families have access to nutritious meals. We’re proud to help them continue their mission.”

Left to right: Stephanie Brown, VP, Community Banking Manager, Peoples Security Bank & Trust; Kevin Boland, SVP, Market Executive, Peoples Security Bank & Trust; Neal Koplin, SEVP, Chief Banking Officer, Peoples Security Bank & Trust; Will Kiefer, Founder/Executive Director, Bench Mark Program; and Gerard Champi, CEO, Peoples Security Bank & Trust.

Left to right: Stephanie Brown, VP, Community Banking Manager, Peoples Security Bank & Trust; Kevin Boland, SVP, Market Executive, Peoples Security Bank & Trust; Neal Koplin, SEVP, Chief Banking Officer, Peoples Security Bank & Trust; Brad Peterson, Executive Director, Power Packs Project; and Gerard Champi, CEO, Peoples Security Bank & Trust.

Peoples Security Bank & Trust Expands Luzerne County Mortgage Team

Peoples Security Bank & Trust Company (PSBT) announced the addition of two experienced mortgage loan originators to its Luzerne County market. Rose Mahler has joined as Mortgage Loan Originator/Team Leader, and Ellen Leighton has joined as Vice President, Mortgage Loan Originator.

“Adding Rose and Ellen to our Luzerne County mortgage team strengthens our ability to meet the growing home financing needs in the region,” said Jerry Champi, CEO. “Their experience and customer-first approach will help more people in our community achieve their homeownership goals.”

Rose Mahler

Mahler has more than 20 years of experience in the mortgage industry. She specializes in Conventional, FHA, VA, Rural Housing, and First-Time Homebuyer programs, while also leading and mentoring a team of loan originators to ensure compliance and customer satisfaction.

Before joining PSBT, Mahler served as Mortgage Originator/Regional Sales Manager at Luzerne Bank and previously worked at Northwest Bank. She began her career at MGE Mortgage. Mahler earned a Bachelor of Science degree from King’s College and has been recognized with the PHFA Originator Award for her outstanding work in affordable housing lending.

She has also been active in the community, previously serving on the YMCA Wilkes-Barre Community Board, graduating from Leadership Wilkes-Barre, and participating as a member of the Junior League of Wilkes-Barre.

Ellen Leighton

Leighton brings more than 40 years of experience in the mortgage industry. In her role as Vice President/Mortgage Loan Officer, she will provide financing solutions tailored to the needs of local clients and partner with area realtors to deliver programs that best fit each customer’s situation. Her focus is on helping individuals and families finance their dream homes.

Prior to joining PSBT, Leighton held mortgage lending positions at Luzerne Bank and Landmark Community Bank and also served as a partner in a mortgage company. Throughout her career, she has been recognized for her sales performance, customer service, and ability to build lasting relationships. In 2024, she earned the Top Producing Mortgage Originator Award from the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency (PHFA) for her work in affordable housing lending.

A graduate of Bishop Hannan High School and Lackawanna College, Leighton is also active in the community. She serves on the fundraising committee for Coffee Inclusive, an initiative that supports employment opportunities for individuals with special needs.

Peoples Security Bank & Trust Welcomes Alyssa Kobal

Peoples Security Bank & Trust is pleased to announce the appointment of Alyssa Kobal as Assistant Vice President, Community Banking Manager at the Bank’s Dickson City Branch.

With over a decade of experience in the financial services industry, Kobal brings a customer-focused mindset and leadership experience to her new role. She will oversee the daily operations of the Dickson City Branch while guiding her team to deliver exceptional service and building lasting relationships within the community.

“I have a sincere appreciation for this opportunity to contribute my experience and skills to an organization that truly values their employees,” said Kobal. “I’m excited to foster a positive, customer-centric environment and work with leadership to develop strategies that enhance the customer experience.”

Kobal began her career in banking as a teller with FNB in 2013 and advanced through roles at Citizens Bank and Mariner Finance, where she most recently held a management position. A native of Forty Fort, PA, she is a graduate of Lake-Lehman High School and a proud volunteer with Action Together NEPA.

Nearly 900 Attend EMPOWER, The Leadership Experience

Nearly 900 women from northeastern Pennsylvania gathered for EMPOWER, The Leadership Experience, a premier women’s leadership event hosted by The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce and presented by Geisinger. The day-long program at Kalahari Convention Centers and Resort brought together professionals, students, and changemakers for inspiration, connection, and growth.

This year’s event featured two keynote speakers, 44 regional leaders, and 90 high school students—making it one of the most impactful EMPOWER programs.

The day started with a breakfast keynote speaker, Christina Butler, an executive communication coach, whose presentation was sponsored by Peoples Security Bank & Trust. Butler energized the crowd with a session focused on clear, concise, and confident communication. She encouraged attendees to eliminate filler phrases and distractions from their language and instead focus on their “why” and “how” to deliver messages that resonate with purpose and poise.

Dominique Dawes, Olympic gold medalist and trailblazing gymnast, headlined the afternoon session as the lunch keynote speaker, with support from PNC Bank. Dawes inspired the audience with stories from her athletic and professional journey, emphasizing the importance of teamwork over ego. “Leave your ego at the door,” she urged attendees. “Greatness is not achieved alone—it’s about what we accomplish together.”

In addition to the powerful keynotes, the event included breakout sessions led by 44 regional speakers representing healthcare, education, finance, media, and entrepreneurship. The sessions covered topics from leadership strategies and mental wellness to business innovation.

“The energy in the room was electric,” said Bob Durkin, president of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce. “EMPOWER continues to grow in reach and impact every year, and this event truly highlighted the strength and potential of women leaders in our region.”

EMPOWER, The Leadership Experience, is part of The Chamber’s ongoing commitment to providing meaningful programming that supports women in leadership and professional development across northeastern Pennsylvania.

Allied Services Receives Donation from Peoples Security Bank & Trust

Peoples Security Bank & Trust Donates $50,000 to Support Pediatric Rehabilitation at Allied Services

Allied Services recently welcomed representatives from Peoples Security Bank & Trust (PSBT) to the John P. Moses, Esq. Pediatric Rehabilitation Center in Scranton to celebrate a generous $50,000 contribution through the Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP). This investment underscores PSBT’s commitment to enhancing pediatric rehabilitation services for children in Northeastern and Central Pennsylvania.

standing front from left: Nancy Jeffers, Vice President, Senior Commercial Loan Officer, PSBT; Lynne Duncan, MS, CCC/SLP, Allied Services; Karen Kile, MS, OTR/L, Allied Services; Danielle Burrier, MS, CCC/SLP, Team Manager, Allied Services; back row from left: Joseph Ferriti, Executive Vice President, Northeast Market President, PSBT; Cathy Guzzi, PT, DPT, MS, Assistant Vice President of Rehab Therapies; Robert Cole, Ph.D., Senior Vice President, Chief Analytics Officer, and Director of Graduate Medical Education, Allied Services

The donation, made possible through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development’s NAP Tax Credit Program, helps ensure that Allied Services can continue providing life-changing therapies and specialized care to more than 1,200 children annually.

“We are deeply grateful for the continued generosity of Peoples Security Bank & Trust,” said Robert Cole, Ph.D., Senior Vice President, Chief Analytics Officer, and Director of Graduate Medical Education at Allied Services. “Community partnerships like this are essential in ensuring that children facing physical and developmental challenges receive the comprehensive care they need to reach their full potential. PSBT’s commitment to our pediatric rehabilitation programs is truly making a difference in the lives of local families.”

For over 30 years, the Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP) has encouraged community participation and partnerships among nonprofits, businesses, and residents to benefit distressed areas and low-income populations. NAP tax credits provide an incentive for corporate partners to invest in nonprofit projects, helping to revitalize Pennsylvania communities and support vital services like pediatric rehabilitation at Allied Services.

Allied Services extends its heartfelt appreciation to Peoples Security Bank & Trust for their generous $50,000 investment in the John P. Moses, Esq. Pediatric Rehabilitation Center. Their support directly impacts the lives of children in need of specialized rehabilitation, empowering them to thrive and achieve their goals.

Peoples Security Bank & Trust Introduces New Senior VP

Peoples Security Bank & Trust has announced the hiring of Rebecca Newsom as Senior Vice President, Director of Community Development and Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) Compliance. In this role, Newsom will lead community development strategies, oversee CRA compliance, and work with community stakeholders, nonprofits, government agencies, and internal teams to help meet the bank’s social responsibility goals. She will focus on driving investments, services, and lending efforts in line with CRA guidelines.

Newsom brings more than 20 years of experience in financial services. She previously served as a CRA mortgage consultant at Fulton Bank and has held roles at First Niagara, National Penn Bank, and AT&T Corp. Throughout her career, she has built strong customer relationships by identifying needs and providing practical financial solutions.

Newsom is also active in the community, serving as a board member for the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce and Community Action Financial Services.

“We are pleased to welcome Rebecca to our team,” said Jerry Champi, President of Peoples Security Bank & Trust. “Her experience in community development and customer service will support our continued commitment to the communities we serve.”